FILM: Leon - TOP 5

This film shot it's way into my top 5 favourite films of all time before it had even finished.
Jean Reno is now one of my favourite actors of all time. He's always brilliant at every role he does.
This film sat in my 'to watch' pile for months - why on earth did I neglect it?

 A 12 year old girl, Mathilda, (Natalie Portman's first role!) finds her abusive family murdered in her flat and takes refuge with her neighbour, Leon, who turns out to be a hit man. With a lot of persuasion, Mathilda has Leon teach her how to be a hit man - how to use guns, how to hit a moving target etc.
Mathilda wants to get revenge on the corrupt and malicious policeman who murdered her family (played by Gary Oldman).
It's a dark film that addresses the issues of childhood and innocence, and the relationship between a fully grown man and a 12 year old girl who is, in some sense, incredibly mature for her age, and in others, very vulnerable and in need of love and care.

You will totally fall for Leon within minutes - he's a down to earth, hard-hearted, depressed man, yet the most wonderful father-figure; so understanding, so kind, so thoughtful, and protective.
No, it doesn't have a happy ending  - or a happy anything, really. But it's beautiful, and the acting is astoundingly good.

FILM: Le Visiteur

So you thought The Princess Bride was silly?
This is of the same ilk but sillier. 
A 12th century knight get accidentally sent to the end of the 20th Century by a wizard (who looks suspiciously like Merlin). 
Hilarity and chaos ensues. Our knight, Godefroy, finds the descendent of the woman he was supposed to marry, who is convinced he is her estranged cousin (they look so alike) who has gone mad and thinks he's a 12th century knight.
The descendent of the servant, Jacquouille, is rich and owns a large hotel and the two families still work closely together.
Jacquouille befriends a woman who lives on the streets.
While trying to convince everyone of their true identity, Godefrey and Jacquouille must find the descendent of the wizard to give them the right potion and send them back in time. 

The film is done brilliantly. It is a hilarious, light-hearted fun watch. 
Jean Reno, the wonderful french actor (who is known for much more serious roles!) is fabulous, somehow managing to keep a straight face. 
If you like Monty Python and The Princess Bride, I guarantee you'll like this film! Don't be put off by the fact that it's in French. If you're put off by subtitles, you're going to miss some of cinema's greatest films.